Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Supreme 🥔🧀

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Supreme 🥔🧀

This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Supreme is the ultimate comfort food dish, featuring tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, creamy cheddar sauce. With its golden, bubbling cheese topping and velvety texture, this dish is perfect for holidays, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving something warm and indulgent. It’s easy to make, yet feels like a gourmet side dish that everyone will rave about.

Let’s dive into how to make this decadent and satisfying recipe step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy & Cheesy : Layers of potatoes are smothered in a luscious cheddar sauce for maximum comfort.
2. Golden Perfection : The top layer of cheese turns golden and crispy, adding irresistible texture.
3. Versatile : Perfect as a holiday side dish or a cozy weeknight treat.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly : Assemble ahead of time and bake just before serving.
5. Customizable : Add bacon, herbs, or spices for extra flavor.

Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

• 2 lbs Russet potatoes , sliced ⅛-inch thick (use a mandoline slicer for even slices )
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness )
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese , divided
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese , divided
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor )
• Salt and pepper , to taste
• Optional toppings : Fresh parsley, chopped green onions, or crispy bacon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes , stirring constantly, to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5–7 minutes .
4. Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups of the cheddar cheese and ½ cup of the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes

1. Arrange a single layer of potato slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them.
2. Pour a thin layer of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
3. Repeat the layering process—potatoes, sauce—until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.
   • Tip : Press down gently on the layers to ensure the sauce seeps into the potatoes.

Step 4: Top with Cheese

1. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer for a golden, cheesy crust.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes .
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes , or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife and the top is golden and bubbly.
3. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with foil during the final baking time.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Let the dish cool for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped green onions, or crispy bacon if desired.

Tips for Success

1. Slice Evenly : Use a mandoline slicer to ensure uniform potato slices for even cooking.
2. Pre-Cook the Potatoes (Optional) : Parboil the potato slices for 3–5 minutes to reduce baking time. Drain well before assembling.
3. Add Protein : Stir cooked bacon bits, ham, or sautéed mushrooms into the layers for extra flavor.
4. Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
5. Freeze for Later : Assemble the dish (without baking), cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Perfect Pairings

This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Supreme pairs beautifully with:

• Roasted Meats : Serve alongside roasted chicken, beef, or pork for a hearty meal.
• Green Salad : A simple arugula or Caesar salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Vegetables : Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for added nutrition.
• Wine Pairing : Enjoy with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir for an elegant dining experience.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 8 servings)

• Calories : ~300 kcal
• Protein : ~12g
• Carbohydrates : ~25g
• Fat : ~18g
• Fiber : ~2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Supreme is the epitome of comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with tender layers of potatoes. Whether you’re serving it as a holiday side dish or simply indulging in a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.

The best part? It’s incredibly versatile, so you can customize it with your favorite add-ins or toppings to make it your own. So grab your potatoes, shred that cheese, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as comforting to make as it is to eat.